Sewing Machine Buyer's Guide

If you want to improve your sewing skills and take your business to the next level, then upgrading to an industrial sewing machine is your next move. To help you find the perfect machine for you and your business, this comprehensive guide will showcase the different functions and features of our industrial sewing machines.

The straight stitch, or lockstitch, is the most common stitch type used to make garments. It’s created by interlocking the top thread of the machine with the bobbin thread. Although it's a basic stitch, it's extremely versatile and can be used to sew virtually any garment or item out of any non-stretch fabric.

If you are looking to start or expand your current sewing business, you can’t go wrong with the versatility of a lockstitch machine.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the types of fabrics you use and the types of items you want to sew will also affect the type of lockstitch machine you’ll need. For example, Ricoma sells light to heavy-duty industrial lockstitch machines to suit the needs of all of our customers.

Overlock machines sew, hem, and trim fabric edges in one step, creating clean, strong seams with multiple threads from cones instead of a bobbin. They’re ideal for stretchy fabrics like t-shirts and undergarments, offering flexible stitches that won’t break. For a polished, professional finish on any project, an overlock machine is an essential tool. Ricoma offers 3-thread to 5-thread models for secure and durable stitching.

Bar tack stitches reinforce high-stress areas on garments, like buttonholes, belt loops, and pocket openings, using tight zigzag patterns. A bar tack machine is essential for ensuring durability and a professional finish on clothing such as pants, jeans, and uniforms.

A coverstitch is commonly used in industrial sewing to finish hems and necklines on stretchy garments like t-shirts, swimsuits, and sportswear. It features two parallel rows of straight stitches on the top and an overlock-style stitch underneath, requiring a machine with two or more needles. This stitch allows the fabric to stretch without breaking, ensuring flexibility and a professional finish. An industrial coverstitch machine is ideal for creating polished garments from stretchy fabrics like lycra, fleece, or knits.

A blindstitch is a sewing technique that creates nearly invisible seams by using minimal thread on the fabric's outer side. Commonly used for hems on dresses, skirts, pants, and shirt cuffs, it provides a clean, professional finish. Ideal for alterations and finishing tasks, an industrial blindstitch machine ensures efficient and high-quality results.